"The vortex of rapidly swirling air entrained and flung bits of lava 10s of feet," the U.S. Geological Survey said in a tweet. Scientists captured the footage by using telephoto lenses, the agency said. The fiery whirlwind happened off and on for about 10 minutes.

Since Kilauea began erupting, lava has destroyed more than 40 structures and the eruption has opened more than 20 vents into the ground — four of which have merged into one large crack, according to the Associated Press. At least one person has been injured.

A lava lake at the summit of Kilauea volcano in Hawaii has now overflowed into the Halema‘uma‘u crater to cover two-thirds of its floor. A timelapse from the US Geological Survey shows 24 hours of activity between April 25-26.